New detour opens for Highway 52

Flooding has closed the detour route for Highway 52 near Pine Island.

The Minnesota Department of transportation announced a new detour this morning for northbound Highway 52. The detour route is now west Highway 14 to Kasson, north on Highway 57 to Wanamingo and then east on 60 to Highway 52 at Zumbrota.

The new detour route is necessary due to flooding on the prior detour route, which included Goodhue County Road 11 and Wabasha County Road 1.

MnDOT officials urge motorists to avoid the area and to expect long delays.

Northbound and southbound Interstate 35 are closed south of Owatonna due to flooding near the I-35/Highway 14 interchange.

Flooding is difficult to predict and roads may be closed or restricted without warning, officials said. Motorists are advised to check road conditions in advance of travel.

MnDOT crews are working around the clock to make highways safe, control flooding and repair roads when waters recess.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency:

· Expect the unexpected – flash floods can occur anytime, anywhere.

· Flooding can knock out bridges, undercut highways and clog roads with mudslides and debris.

· Do not drive into flooded areas.

• If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.

• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.

• A foot of water will float many vehicles.

• Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles and pick-ups.

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